United's first team squad won 9-0 against cash-strapped Ingoldisthorpe last night, with goals from Martin Butler (3), Alex Finlayson (3), Michael Kyd, Trevor Benjamin and 'Billy' Beall.

Peter Connor, chairman of the North West Norfolk League side said, "It was a marvellous gesture for Cambridge United to come up here."

Roy McFarland has spoken about John Taylor's new role after the 33-year-old agreed a new deal which includes coaching, scouting and taking charge of the reserves. He told the Cambridge Evening News: "He was keen to get into coaching and we see him as a very valuable member of our set-up. He is a great influence on the players and has excellent leadership qualities. Looking after the Capital League team will give him experience, and I still see him as a striker we can call on for the first team."

Further to the arrival of Robbie Reinelt from Brighton, United have signed another player on trial under rule 18(i). 19-year-old Swindon defender Michael Pattimore played for the reserves at Barnet this afternoon (2pm), and the Welsh youth international could also feature in the final reserve fixture of the season next Tuesday.

The reserves won 2-0 with the two headed goals coming from trialists Robbie Reinelt and Mark Moore. Roy McFarland said, "We were easily the better side, and Reinelt did well."

Reserve team: Shaun Marshall, Michael Pattimore, Adie Hayes, Larry McAvoy, John Taylor, Paul Wilson, Jason Rees, Robbie Reinelt, Alex Finlayson, Mark Moore, Mark McCammon.
Subs: Tom Youngs, Darren Webb, Keith Newby.

Commenting on Reinelt's trial, McFarland told the CEN, "We tried to get Robbie in earlier this season, but couldn't quite come to an agreement with Steve Gritt who was manager then, but Brian Horton gave the go-ahead. Robbie impressed us when he played against us at the Abbey twelve months ago. His movement is very good, that's what interests us. But it depends on how he goes, we haven't come to any decision yet."

The team sheet for yesterday's youth team game, when United youths drew 1-1 at Southend, was Mercer, Cox (Nacca 35'), McNeil, Fox, Tann, Barrows, Mills, Steward, Newby, Chillingworth, Gibson. Subs not used: Webb, Beadell.

The national Press have chosen to highlight errors by former U's defender Jody Craddock in last night's Division One game against Ipswich, and claim that he may have cost Sunderland automatic promotion to the Premiership. Craddock's new club lost 2-0, which ensured a return to the Premiership for Nottingham Forest and kept alive Middlesbrough's hopes of the second automatuc place.

McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News: "We thought why not go up there and play a match against them? Let's get out there and help somebody. I know we have a third division game at Hull on Saturday, but I'm going to start with the full first team, with one exception. Marc Joseph is suffering from some stomach trouble.

"We'll take some trialists up there with us as well, but I can assure people this is a first team match for us. We are glad to be able to help out."

One of the trialists on show tonight could well be Robbie Reinelt, who has arrived from Brighton and Hove Albion. Best known for scoring the goal against Hereford that kept the Seagulls in the League at the end of last season, the 24-year-old has been handed a free transfer by new boss Brian Horton just over a year after signing from Colchester in a £15,000 move.

Popular with the Brighton fans, Reinelt was linked with a move to the Abbey in December, with Jamie Barnwell-Edinboro tipped to make the opposite move, and that deal could yet be resurrected. Steve Greenall confirms that Reinelt has arrived under FA rule 18(i) and Jamie Barnwell has gone to Brighton under the same rule, which states that a contracted player can play up to two games within a 28 day period, but not first team games.

In December Brighton supporters commented that Reinelt is a good all-round player but he is probably better in midfield than up front as his finishing ability this season has been less than impressive. They also confirmed that he had picked up several bookings this season and had served two bans by Christmas, something that irritated previous manager Steve Gritt.

In his favour Reinelt came off the bench to volley lowly Brighton's second goal in their 2-1 win at Peterborough over Christmas, the start of the slump that eventually saw the P*sh miss out on any chance of promotion.

Taylor - new role

Last week Roy McFarland confirmed that negotiations were under way with Taylor and commented, "There's no doubt he has leadership qualities which would be valuable for this club, and he can still get out there in a match, maybe not week-in, week-out, and give us something on the pitch."

The Football League have granted permission for Cambridge United to register Tommy Smith as a player despite the transfer deadline having passed. The club appealed for special dispensation to sign and play the Manchester United midfielder, who has been on trial at the Abbey, as the match next Saturday has no bearing on promotion issues. The League agreed today and Smith is now set to sign a short term contract and could make his debut at Hull on Saturday.

Originally from Northampton, Smith was spoiled for choice as a schoolboy with many big clubs keen to sign him, but he has not broken through into Manchester United's big squad and his career has been interrupted by a long-term injury. He is described as a pacy, aggressive midfielder who is 'not afraid to put his foot in', he scored for the reserves at Stevenage last week and Steve Greenall suspects 'strongly' that Smith will figure in Roy McFarland's plans for the match at Hull.

He will join the U's for pre-season training and early months of next season, and if that goes well Smith could become our second permanent signing from the Manchester giants - another coup for United after the capture of Andy Duncan from the Premiership champions.

United received praise from an unexpected quarter after Saturday's game. The U's drew 2-2 with Champions Notts County and could have won easily but for an outstanding display from Magpies keeper Darren Ward. County manager Sam Allardyce commented after the game, "Cambridge look like they've made a lot of progress since they played us at our place earlier."

He told the Cambridge Evening News: "They play good football, have some dangerous forwards and you can never relax against them. We had to re-arrange the defence to try to control the lad Benjamin. A draw was the best we could expect out of this game."

McFarland - "pressure"

United boss Roy McFarland admitted that he was putting pressure on his players by saying before the game that the clash would be a yardstick to measure his team's progress this season. He said, "I put that bit of pressure on, and the players reacted very well. They are easily the best team in our division, but we would have beaten them if their keeper Darren Ward hadn't been in such brilliant form.

"I had to admit to him when he came off the pitch I made a mistake by not signing him when I was at Derby County. He's developed into a fine keeper."

David Batch's youth team also produced a praise-worthy draw on Saturday, holding a strong Portsmouth team to a goalless draw in the morning. United's youth team manager told the Cambridge Evening News, "It was next year's team with the exception of one second year, so it's an encouraging result against a side that have finished second in the league.

"They had quite a few second years they have taken on as pros, and we finished the game with six schoolboys. Considering the age and experience of the team it was a really good performance."

Cambridge United: (4-3-3) Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Beall, Butler (Taylor 85'), Kyd, Benjamin.
Sub not used: Preece, Wilson.
Booked: Duncan (obstruction 33')

Notts County: Ward, Poric (Robinson 60'), Pearce, Redmile, Strodder, Dyer, Finnan (Diuk 66'), Hughes, Farrell, Jones, Robson (Jackson 78').
Booked: Redmile (foul 13'), Strodder (foul 20'), Farrell (dissent 26').
Ref: J P Robinson (Hull).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 10, Notts County 6
Corners: Cambridge 7, Notts County 7

Goals from Martin Butler and 'Billy' Beall were cancelled out by clever strikes in each half from the division's leading scorer Gary Jones, but the U's could have gone on to win this match and were denied by a string of stunning saves from Darren Ward.

Adem Poric had a shot saved by Scott Barrett in the first minute but Martin Butler opened the scoring for the U's in the 19th minute. He took his time to finish with a low drive from 25 yards after some great interplay with lively midfielder Beall. But goalpoacher Jones equalised seven minutes later, seizing on a half chance and brilliantly lobbing a chip over Scott Barrett.

Beall - goal

United continued to impress against easily the best side in the division, and 'Billy' Beall restored the lead shortly afterwards following an attacking run by skipper Paul Wanless. Butler left Wanless' cross and Beall cut in from the right to bury a low rasping drive in County's net, his first League goal of the season. Trevor Benjamin went close to scoring twice in the first half and Andy Duncan forced a good save from Ward just before the break.

United continued to play some great football in the second half while the visitors dug deep and showed how they have earned such a good away record, including more away wins than any other side in the country. Michael Kyd tormented them while Ward produced some outstanding saves, including a point-blank header from Paul Wanless midway through the half. So it was galling that after seeing countless chances saved at the other end, Jones was able to snatch a point for Notts with another good finish. He pounced on a weak defensive header by Andy Duncan, turned smartly and squeezed the equaliser home in the 75th minute.

Still United could have won the game 15 minutes from time when United skipper Paul Wanless provided Beall with a pinpoint pass and the midfielder powered in in a header from no more than six yards. But Ward produced a world class save, somehow tipping the ball away at full stretch.

United's performance deserved more than the single point and from that point of view it was an ultimately disappointing result, but it bodes so well for next season.

Elsewhere Macclesfield earned automatic promotion with their 3-2 win over former tenants Chester City while Peterborough's 3-1 defeat at Torquay ended their play-off hopes. "We'll Meet Again ...!"

"Notts County have won promotion very impressively. They are way ahead. It's a game in which we can measure how far we have come. When you are out of the promotion places a season can fade out, but this match really gives us something to play for and I can't see County coming to stroll around because they want to top that hundred points and go up in style."

McFarland is expected to name the same side that stormed to a 4-1 victory over Swansea last week, and wait for the final game at Hull to try any fringe players. "We'll have to be at our best, but we've got nothing to fear," he added. "They scraped a 1-0 win against us at their place in a very even game."

Manchester United trialist Tommy Smith could be one of those used at Hull City next week - if the League grant permission for him to play. Steve Greenall confirmed today that as the game does not affect the promotion places United have appealed to the League for permission to sign him and play him next week.

The Cambridge Evening News Player of the Year award has gone to Paul Wanless, the midfield rock on which Roy McFarland is rebuilding his side. He finished top of the ratings supplied by the fans for every match and his manager understands why.

"I'm not surprised at the way the supporters' marks have come out," commented Roy McFarland. "Paul Wanless wears his heart on his sleeve. They can see he is giving everything in every game. He wants to win for them, and they know it. This award reflects that rapport he has with the supporters.

"You couldn't have a more committed professional in your side. He's been a very important influence for us. The injury he got in training last week showed what sort of player he is. Whether it's in a match or on the training pitch, he gives 100 per cent."

The 24-year-old arrived on loan two years ago after Lincoln boss John Beck made it clear he had no future at Sincil Bank, before making the move permanent in the summer. He capped an impressive loan spell by replacing the injured Scott Barrett in goal during the last game of 1995-96 and keeping a clean sheet!

Wanless, who is currently contracted until the end of next season, responded by telling the CEN, "It's great to get the award. I'd like to thank the supporters. I'm sure it's been my best full season, and I've really enjoyed it although it's been very frustrating to miss out on promotion. If we could have started this run a bit earlier I think we would have been good enough for the top three, not just the play-offs.

"I've always put everything into my game, and we are getting that through the team now. It looks very encouraging for next season."

Barnwell-Edinboro arrived two years ago on a free transfer from Coventry City but never really hit the goal-scoring form to go with his electric pace. He was linked with a move to Brighton earlier this season. Hayes can play in midfield or as a wing-back and came through the youth ranks to demonstrate good skills and promise. He was persuaded by McFarland to stay at the club instead of following ex-manager Tommy Taylor to Leyton Orient 18 months ago, but he has struggled to make the breakthrough into the first team on a consistent basis.

McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News today: "Sadly, Adie hasn't made quite enough progress as far as his all-round game is concerned. He's got a marvellous left foot and he can hit better crosses probably than anybody in the club. With limited resources at a small club, you have to make hard decisions, and we aren't able to keep him on."

Of Barnwell he added, "There was a stage when Jamie looked like making a big breakthrough. I played him behind the front two in a friendly against Cambridge City, as well as at Colchester, and he was shaping up well. But he wasn't able to build on that and make the place his own. Both lads have been excellent professionals though, and I'll be doing all I can to fix them up with other clubs."

Meanwhile 19-year-old Trevor Benjamin, Ben Chenery and Ian Ashbee (both 21) are expected to sign new deals with the club this week. They have all become first team regulars this season and the club have moved to secure their services as the campaign finishes on a great run of form - and just a few weeks too early!

Benjamin

Trevor 'Fash' Benjamin is another to emerge through the youth ranks while Chenery and Ashbee arrived as astute free transfer signings. This season Benjamin has started to show composure in front of goal to go with his strength and pace. The big striker scored a vital FA Cup equaliser against Plymouth in November before enjoying a purple patch of four goals in three games during March and being voted U's Net "Player of the Month".

Ian Ashbee was Roy McFarland's first signing, rescued from Derby County's reserves in December 1996, and he has been a revelation in both defence and midfield this season. Ben Chenery arrived last summer on a free transfer from Luton after playing just twice for the Hatters, and injury to Matt Joseph saw him plunged straight into first team action. He struggled to adapt to wing back play but has looked increasingly secure in a flat back four, having fully recovered from an horrific injury against Cardiff this season.

Having completed the permanent signing of Andy Duncan, United are in talks with another Manchester United player. Tommy Smith has been on trial and playing in the reserves, and United are now discussing a short term contract with the young midfielder. As the transfer deadline has passed the club are unable to sign new players but will appeal to the League for permission to sign him and play him at Hull City as the game has no bearing on promotion places.

The reserves entertained Reading in the unexpected heat this afternoon but despite another goal from Alex Finlayson they lost 2-1 to a late goal.

United: Shaun Marshall, Mark Moore (Darren Webb), Adie Hayes, Martin McNeill, John Taylor, Paul Wilson, Jason Rees, Tommy Smith, Mark McCammon, Alex Finlayson (Andy Ingham), Jamie Barnwell (Keith Newby).

"We don't do that sort of thing, and over a season you are going to benefit from it as a team. There was only only one blot as far as I'm concerned when Michael Kyd, who scored a couple of good goals, got involved in a bit of wrestling towards the end. He'd beaten the defender with his skill, and got a free kick, but you have to be aware that if a player from the other side has been sent off another red card might be used."

The manager was pleased with his team's performance and their temperament as they made it five wins in the last eight. He said, "It was certainly one of our best displays of the season. We played good, fast two-touch football in very difficult, wet conditions. There were excellent performances right through the team. And we saw very clearly how important it is to keep your self-discipline."

Taylor - new role?

McFarland also confirmed that the club is negotiating to keep John Taylor at the Abbey in a player-coach role. The 33-year-old striker said at Thursday's Fans' Forum that he would be out of contract in the summer but hoped to stay in some capacity, and McFarland told today's CEN: "Nothing is settled yet. There are talks with John and the chairman to see what we can set up, but I would like to keep John on board.

"There's no doubt he has leadership qualities which would be valuable for this club, and he can still get out there in a match, maybe not week-in, week-out, and give us something on the pitch."

You can read Jamie Dyer's excellent report on the Fans' Forum here.

Youth team manager David Batch praised his side's performance on Saturday, when they lost 2-1 to Norwich, but was unhappy with the goals conceded. "I was pleased with the performance because we played well and were in control throughout most of the game," he said. "Unfortunately, we gave away two bad goals. But they had five lads they have given pro terms to and one or two second years. We had all first years and schoolboys, so they did well."

The reserves are in action tonight at Stevenage Borough, and Manchester United trialist Tommy Smith is included in the starting eleven. The young midfielder arrived at the Abbey on trial in January after recovering from a long term injury, and played for the reserves in February. Non-contract players Mark Moore, Alex Finlayson and Mark McCammon also play.

Referee Dean said: "I don't mind explaining anything about a decision to a manager but Mr Cork was ranting and raving and it was best under the circumstances that he should be prevented from coming into the changing room. It was a clear-cut sending off. The Swansea player disagreed with a decision and threw mud into the face of one of my assistants.

"As for what went on outside my changing room during the break, these things happen in the heat of the moment and I do not intend to take it any further."

Cork said he was trying to clarify the sending off: "I don't condone indiscipline by my player but it was not clear to me at that stage whether the incident warranted a sending off."

Cambridge United: (4-3-3) Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless (Moore 81'), Beall (McCammon 87'), Butler, Kyd, Benjamin.
Sub not used: Taylor.

Swansea City: Freestone, Lacey, Jenkins, O'Leary, Walker, Bound, Cusack, Watkin (Newhouse 65'), Bird, Appleby (O'Gorman 77'), Hartfield (Coates 58').
Booked: Cusack (foul 90')
Sent off: Bird (dissent 39')

Ref: M L Dean (Eastham).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 11, Swansea 6
Corners: Cambridge 5, Swansea 4

United recorded their biggest win of the season in style this afternoon, at times able to play exhibition football against ten-man Swansea. Both sides started brightly in the rain although United's early attacks lacked the final ball, but Martin Butler opened the scoring on 17 minutes. Trevor Benjamin harried goalkeeper Roger Freestone into a poor clearance only to see his shot blocked by defender Matthew Bound, but Butler slid through the mud to poke the ball over the line.

United were unable to build on the lead as within five minutes Tony Bird finished a flowing Swansea move, connecting with Richard Appleby's pinpoint right-wing cross to head home.

United continued to press and Martin Butler restored the lead in the 38th minute, dispossessing Bound on the edge of the area and turning to hammer a rocket shot inside the near post from 20 yards. Almost immediately Bird was in conflict with a linesman and not only voiced his displeasure but threw mud at the official, a foolish act which was punished with a red card. United were comfortably in the driving seat and could have added another before half time but for Benjamin's header going wide and a good save from Freestone.

Kyd - brace

Swansea started the second half well and forced a couple of saves from Scott Barrett, but United extended the lead in the 56th minute and killed the game. Freestone's poor clearance was collected in midfield by 'Billy' Beall, he spotted Michael Kyd breaking into the area and picked him out with a superb pass. Kyd took the ball in his stride and lashed the ball past the keeper from the edge of the area, a goal similar to his winner in last weekend's derby game.

From then United dominated the game completely, stringing together pass after pass although the moves often lacked the cutting edge, but at 3-1 up that didn't matter too much! Even so, Butler and Kyd could have added to their haul, Paul Wanless had chances and Ian Ashbee set up Benjamin for a thunderous shot that was well saved by Freestone. Swansea's one real effort from sub Aiden Newhouse was similarly well saved by Scott Barrett.

United's pressure eventually told and Michael Kyd's second and United's fourth was the stunning icing on the cake. The confidence of scoring recent goals showed in the 81st minute as Kyd ran from almost the halfway line, jinked past two defenders and from 15 yards lobbed the ball home over the stranded Freestone.

At 4-1 the exhibition football was in full flow and McFarland was able to hand a debut to Mark Moore, who replaced Paul Wanless with nine minutes to go, and with about five minutes left lanky teenage striker Mark McCammon came on for his League debut in place of the human dynamo Beall.

To complete the perfect afternoon, Lincoln City all but ended Peterborough's play-off hopes with a 3-0 victory at Sincil Bank, pushing POSH down to ninth place.

Halifax Town clinched promotion from the GM Vauxhall Conference this afternoon and they will replace Doncaster Rovers in the third division next season.

Providing both players avoid any ill-effects McFarland is likely to name an unchanged side, although he has hinted that there could be one or two new faces in contention for places on the bench. Teenage forwards Mark McCammon and Tom Youngs are included in the squad and may get another first team chance, while versatile defender/midfielder Mark Moore will be hoping to go one better than last week and get off the bench at some stage.

Visitors Swansea have, like United, had a late season revival and won three of their last five matches, conceding only two goals. They have the incentive of possibly finishing above fierce rivals Cardiff if they win all their remaining games, but they could be without giant striker Julian Alsop who is suffering from back trouble.

McFarland commented: "Exeter interrupted our unbeaten run, but we played well enough in the second half to have won the game, and it's not a case of having to pick ourselves up, but rather of carrying on from when we beat Peterborough last week."

Club captain John Taylor echoed his manager's words, adding, "We mustn't let the season just wind down now. It's very important to finish on a high. It can make a big difference to the way a team starts the next season. We've been on a very good run, promotion form, which has built confidence, and we don't want to lose that now that the play-offs are out of reach.

"I reckon we have a good chance next season. A lot of the young players have gained experience, and we aren't in the position we were last season when we lost what you could call key players."

United squad: Barrett, Chenery, Joseph, Duncan, Campbell, Ashbee, Wanless, Beall, Butler, Kyd, Benjamin, Taylor, Moore, Wilson, McCammon, Youngs.

Youth team striker Andy Ingham is another who could well be introduced to first team action before the end of the season, becoming one of United's youngest-ever players in the process. The sixteen-year-old has made such an impact in his first year at the Abbey that McFarland is considering putting him on the bench before the end of the season.

"Andy has made exciting progress," said the United boss. "He's made the step up from youth team football to the reserves very smoothly, and he could get a place on the bench in a League game soon. It's exceptional for a 16-year-old player to show up so well in senior football because of the quality of his football rather than just size.

"He's one of several players we'll be looking at in these last few weeks of the season. We won't be experimenting very much with the side because we want to keep things bowling along to set us up for next season, but lads like Andy, Mark McCammon, Tom Youngs and Mark Moore could be brought in among the substitutes."

Ingham, from Norwich, has been part of the United set-up for three years, and the club took the highly unusual step of signing him on a three-year contract as soon as he reached 16. "We did it with Andy and another lad Mark Gibson," explained United youth manager David Batch. "Ricky Martin, our youth development officer was very keen to get them to the club.

"Mark has had injury problems and hasn't been able to make as much progress as Andy, who really has been outstanding. He used to play as a winger, but we saw qualities which marked him out as a striker. He has a tremendous shot for a youngster, probably the best I've seen at that age. He hits the ball with power and precision, and he can do it from tight situations.

"But it's his movement which sets him apart from other players in his age group - and he is still eligible to play for our under 16's. He can do the double runs which pull defenders out of position. We've put him in Capital League matches with the reserves and he's adapted well. He's a natural footballer, always aware of the play, and we've got great hopes for him."

Cambridge United have a big lead at the top of the Fair Play table, which Roy McFarland believes is a sign of maturity rather than timidity. This time last year the manager was calling for "mental toughness" from his players and lamenting his team's "soft underbelly", but in a division where toughness and strength is as important as skill he is happy with United's disciplinary record.

McFarland - "discipline"

"I don't think we've been found wanting when it comes to the physical side of the game, and it's good to see the players going in hard but fair," he told the Cambridge Evening News. "You need toughness and aggression, but it's no good without discipline. We haven't been getting bookings for the daft things, which is very encouraging. Exeter lost Steve Flack for throwing the ball down in dissent, and his manager rightly went ballistic with him for letting the team down."

United's record of less than 30 bookings in 50 League and Cup matches underlines the conviction of McFarland and the supporters that the U's FA Cup exit at Stevenage was very rough justice: "We have a record like this, but we got two players sent off in the first half of a game," he commented. "Now we've proved we aren't that sort of team, and that there were some very poor decisions taken by the referee on that night."

The youth team's South East Counties match against Norwich City tomorrow morning has been switched from the Simoco ground to Norwich because of a waterlogged pitch.

Larry McAvoy - a defender who can play anywhere across the back. Very strong, quick, and comfortable in possession.

Darren Webb - a very athletic midfielder with extremely good technical ability in turning and manouevering the ball.

Keith Newby - A flair player who operates in an attacking midfield role, creating and scoring goals.

Dean Armstrong - A very good technical player with an excellent football brain, who can operate to good effect anywhere at the back or in midfield.

Jamie Scales - An exciting left wing-back who is very athletic and quick with a quality left foot. Special credit to Jamie for having the mental capacity to to overcome two long-term injuries in the past two years.

Darren Cockrill - a tall centre forward who is getting stronger all the time. Prolific scorer in the youth team.

The club have released the ticket prices for next season. Secretary Steve Greenall says most fans will pay the same as this season although there will no longer be a two-tier system for seats in the Main Stand, outside of the Family Enclosure.

Match day admissions for 1998/99 will be:-

ALL TERRACE/FAMILY ENCLOSURE
Adults	£8.00
Concessions	£5.00

MAIN STAND
Adults	£12.00
Concessions	£6.00

In order to get the concessions, OAPs, students and under 16s will need to obtain a concessions booklet, priced at £5.00 for the season. A voucher will be torn off at the turnstile, rather as with a season ticket. The decision to do this was taken after various checks revealed that some people were abusing the system.

Season Ticket prices will be as follows up to 31st May 1998:

	TERRACE	FAMILY ENC.	MAIN STAND
ADULTS	£135	£135	£190
OAPs	£75	£75	£95
STUDENTS	£75	£75	£95
UNDER 16s	£30	£30	£30

Those prices increase from 1st June 1998:

	TERRACE	FAMILY ENC.	MAIN STAND
ADULTS	£150	£150	£220
OAPs	£85	£85	£115
STUDENTS	£85	£85	£115
UNDER 16s	£40	£40	£40

There will no longer be free admittance to any cup games, although Season Ticket holders and Concession Book holders will be given priority for purchase of cup tickets.

Existing season ticket holders have until 31st May to be guaranteed the same reserved seat for the new season.

There is another of the popular Fans' Forums at the club tomorrow evening, organised by the Cambridge United Supporters Association and compered by Trevor Peer. It will be held in the Harris Suite at 7.30pm and it is your chance to meet Roy McFarland and some of the players, as well as club secretary Steve Greenall and at least one of the directors.

If you are unable to attend but have a question for the panel it can be sent to Steve Greenall at CUFC or Dave Matthews-Jones, CUSA, c/o CUFC, and may be asked on your behalf.

All proceeds go towards the youth development scheme so get along tomorrow night if you can.

Mark Moore spoke briefly to U's Net today about his attempt to break into professional football. The South African played soccer in the USA while studying for his Masters' degree and earned several representative honours while playing as sweeper and then in midfield for New Hampshire College. After a trial spell and some games for the reserves he recently signed non-contract terms until the end of this season.

The 25-year-old was interested to hear that friends from South Africa and the USA are following his progress through the pages of this web site and said, "Everything is going fine. I'm hoping to play in the last few games of the season and have a run in the side. Training is going fine and it was good to be on the bench on Monday."

The contact was seen clearly by the fans but Mr Crick, who had sent off Exeter striker Steve Flack in the 54th minute, only showed Blake the yellow card.

Roy McFarland

McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News: "It wasn't exactly vicious, but everybody in the ground saw it, and if a player strikes another like that he has to go. It could have made all the difference. We were battering Exeter throughout the second half, and if they had been down to nine men they might not have held out.

"Somebody said to me referees don't like sending two players off. Well that didn't stop the one at Stevenage doing it to us. Officials should judge every incident on its merits and nothing else."

United looked weary in the first half, perhaps feeling the effects of their derby efforts on Saturday and Paul Wanless, returning from a one match suspension, admitted, "We were poor, we deserved to go in a goal down."

McFarland commented: "Our front three weren't getting into the game, then when we did have a good chance Trevor Benjamin didn't take it as well as he could have. We were very uncertain in defence. Andy Duncan was especially disappointed with his performance. But the lad hasn't had to play this kind of schedule before, so he'll learn from it."

Cambridge United: (4-3-3) Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Beall (Taylor 66'), Butler, Kyd, Benjamin.
Subs: Wilson, Moore.

Exeter City: Bayes, Devlin, Gale, Blake, Clark, Baddeley, Flack, Phillips (Williams 82'), McConnell (Rowbotham 59'), Birch, Richardson.
Sub not used: Holloway.
Booked: Flack (foul 33'); Devlin (foul 59'); Blake (foul 63'); Phillips (foul 82').
Sent off: Flack (dissent 54')

Ref: D. R. Crick (Worcester Park)

Shots On Target: Cambridge 7, Exeter City 7
Corners: Cambridge 12, Exeter City 4

But the only change to the eleven that beat Peterborough on Saturday was the anticipated return of Paul Wanless from suspension. He replaced veteran David Preece, who was his outstanding deputy in the victory on Saturday. Unfortunately it was another veteran midfielder - Exeter's Paul Birch - who grabbed the goal that decided the match and kept the home side's play-off hopes alive while ending United's.

Both sides started brightly but it was the former Aston Villa and Wolves man who pounced in the 13th minute. Scott Barrett parried Devlin's shot and Birch followed up to force the ball home from six yards.

Wanless was outstanding on his comeback and Trevor Benjamin caused several flutters in the Grecians' defence but United could not get back on level terms. In a controversial second half Cambridge-born Steve Flack earned referee Crick's displeasure for dissent in the 54th minute, and as he had already been booked in the first half he took the long walk. United threw everything at them, including John Taylor who changed the course of the game on Saturday when he again replaced 'Billy' Beall, but the crossbar, a goal line clearance and excellent goalkeeping by Ashley Bayes denied the U's.

At the final whistle most people in the ground were surprised that Birch's early goal had been enough to take the points for City, a win that leaves them six points off the play-off places but effectively ends United's faint hopes as well as an eight match unbeaten run.

Looking back to Saturday's derby win over Peterborough, manager Roy McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News, "Peterborough never really troubled us apart from when Carruthers had his chance. Then Scott came out quickly to make a good save.

"We had a lot of youngsters out there who showed they are maturing fast. And in those conditions we had the legs to keep going longer than Peterborough. They defended well against us, but it was us who were dictating the play most of the time against a side who needed to win to stay in the picture at the top."

The United boss also refuses to rule out the play-offs, saying, "Until it's mathematically impossible we'll go for it. We'll just keep chipping away."

Meanwhile Posh manager Barry Fry admitted a draw was the best he could hope for in the second half: "We held Cambridge against the strong wind before the break," he said. "Their most dangerous attacker was the goalkeeper whose kicks were bouncing over our crossbar. But I was disappointed we couldn't make more chances in the second half. Adam Drury going off injured was a blow, and their goal came out of nothing really. We are up against it now, with games at Lincoln and Exeter, and we have to react to that."

Kyd - goal

An 81st minute goal from Michael Kyd settled a tense and edgy game, and he revealed that it was the playing conditions that helped him make up his mind to shoot from the edge of the area: "When the ball fell for me I thought on a surface like that it was best to have a shot rather than taking the ball on because anything can happen in the box on a slippery pitch."

The young striker added, "It was third time lucky because I'd gone close a couple of other times just before that. I thought we deserved it. We played much better than they did against the wind, and we created more chances overall."

Midfielder 'Billy' Beall played his part in the win, running rings around Derek Payne and himself into the soft ground, before he went off to be replaced by John Taylor. However the 20-year-old has confirmed he will not be signing a new contract before the end of the season.

"I think it makes sense to see what happens in the summer," said Beall, who has been constantly linked with Leyton Orient and former United manager Tommy Taylor. "That's what Jody and Micah did last year. There's no point rushing into anything at this stage. Every player wants to get to the highest level he can, so I'm having a look around."

Cambridge United: (4-3-3) Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Preece, Beall (Taylor 78'), Butler, Kyd, Benjamin.
Subs: Wilson, Barnwell.

Peterborough United: Tyler, Linton, Drury (McMenamin 73'), Payne, Rennie, Edwards, Farrell, Castle, Carruthers (Green 85'), Quinn, Inman (De Souza 85').
Booked: Carruthers (foul 7'), Linton (foul 42').

Ref: W C Burns (Scarborough).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 3, Peterborough 3
Corners: Cambridge 4, Peterborough 2

The heavy pitch contributed to a patchy game but United started with purpose, cheered on by noisy supporters, and never allowed Peterborough to settle. The first half was typical of a derby game - combative, edgy and higher on tension than goalmouth incidents. Ashbee, Preece and Beall bossed the midfield while the defence was as solid as you would expect from a side with six clean sheets in the last nine matches. The first half produced few real chances although late in the half a flowing United move ended with the lively Michael Kyd inches from connecting with a low cross.

After the break the pitch was showing signs of punishment but United still managed to play neat, attractive football at times. 'Boro carved out an early chance when Martin Carruthers escaped Marc Joseph to get on the end of a Jimmy Quinn flick-on, but Scott Barrett was alert and as Carruthers hesitated he rushed out and saved bravely at the striker's feet.

Up front, Kyd, Butler and Benjamin caused all sorts of problems for the Posh defence but it was when John Taylor replaced 'Billy' Beall (78min) that things changed. 'Shaggy' has played in more of these games than the rest of the players on the pitch put together and he added the decisive bite and determination to United's attack, as well as raising the crowd again.

United had a chance seconds afterwards when Kyd burst through on the right to force a save from goalkeeper Mark Tyler. Then three minutes after coming on, Taylor headed the ball into Michael Kyd's path and the youngster made no mistake from the edge of the box, completely wrong-footing Tyler and sending a low shot skimming through the muddy penalty area and into the far corner.

The Abbey erupted and despite some desperate late pressure from Peterborough and two minutes of injury time, it was United's turn to celebrate a derby win while the Posh reflected on their fifth straight away defeat. The strains of "We'll Meet Again" could be heard from the PA system after the final whistle, an indication of which division we think Posh will be in next season!

Despite the lack of a local in the senior squad, 'Ash' promises, "We all know how the fans feel about these games, and the players tap into that emotion. We still want to finish higher than Peterborough this season, and we know the supporters would love us to stop Posh getting promotion.

Ian Ashbee

"You play in derby games at different levels from the start of your career," he told the Cambridge Evening News. "For me, the first was Blues v Villa, then when I went to Derby, it was County v Forest. Now it's United against Posh."

He revealed that the players want revenge for the defeat at London Road, when 'Boro striker Jimmy Quinn tipped the balance with a late winner in a tight 1-0 encounter: "I thought we were the better side at their place," he said. "I was gutted when they got that late winner.

"I know exactly how our fans felt that night. A lot of them turned up and they really got behind us. We had a few chances to win the game, and we never looked like losing it until the ball deflected to Jimmy Quinn, off me I think."

Ashbee's conversion to midfield has coincided with a much improved run of form that sees the U's go into tomorrow's game on the back of a seven match unbeaten run, with only one defeat in the last eleven games and six clean sheets in the last nine.

"We are producing promotion form now," he continued. "We've let some points slip, like at Hartlepool. But I think that's just down to inexperience. If the side stays together, which it looks as though it should, I think we have a great chance next season. We can't get to the play-offs now without a bit of a miracle, but if you finish off a season well it keeps your enthusiasm up and you can't wait to start again after the summer break.

"Beating Peterborough would be another boost after the recent results. I think we've got every chance because they've had a terrible run. They've had a lot of stick lately, and all the pressure will be on them."

Experienced player-coach David Preece stands by to replace Wanless in midfield, but apart from that enforced chance Roy McFarland looks likely to send out the same side he has fielded for the last two games.

Ms Merron's proposed Levy Board would aim to re-distribute the money received from TV companies more evenly throughout the Football League, and Greenall told the Cambridge Evening News: "It's good to see MPs getting more involved in the financing of football. Something needs to be done to help the many smaller clubs like ourselves.

Steve Greenall

"I believe the idea would be for the board to get an extra £20m to spread among the lower division clubs. That's not exactly robbing the Premiership which rakes in more than £600m from television deals. But it would mean about £200,000 a year extra for United, offsetting the need to sell so many of our better players to stay in business.

"I'm glad Mrs Campbell is supporting the club in this way, and I hope the idea of the Board receives more and more backing, even if the bill does not succeed this time."

Anne Campbell herself commented: "Cambridge people should not be denied the right to support their own team because the richer clubs are taking the lion's share of the money. We need a fairer distribution of the TV income."

With the backing of only 155 MPs Ms Merron's bill has no chance of becoming law at this stage, but the MP for Lincoln said: "The smaller clubs are being clobbered in a number of ways. The richer are just getting rich in the sport."

The Police insist that NO tickets for Saturday's match will be sold on the day of the match, but the ticket office will be open on Good Friday morning to cope with any last minute purchases.

Ticket prices for next season are due to be released in the next few days and details will be available here as soon as possible.

Two members of Huntingdon Police Fraud Squad will be watching the match with slightly more than the usual interest. Stuart Kent - a United fan - and colleague Andy Kemp - a Peterborough fan - will pay an unique 'forfeit' if their team fails to win. Stuart has worn a 'full set' in terms of a beard and moustache for 20 years and Andy has worn a droopy moustache since the 70s, but the loser on Saturday will be shaved for charity, with all proceeds going to a Cystic Fibrosis charity.

"We hope shaving will commence at the rear of the Main Stand live on Radio Cambridgeshire soon after the final whistle," said Steve Greenall.

If the game ends in a draw both men will be shaved!

Secretary Steve Greenall said, "The FA have reminded us that we cannot appeal against individual bookings, except when there is a case of mistaken identity."

The loss of the consistent and influential Wanless - who had another fine game at Hartlepool on Saturday - comes as a blow to Roy McFarland's plans but the manager issued a rallying call to United supporters today.

He wants the Abbey crowd to "dent Peterborough's promotion hopes" on Saturday, he told the Cambridge Evening News: "No United supporter wants Peterborough to go up. It's the same in derby games all over the country. We are going to do our best to stop them, and we'll need the fans making a lot of noise to help us.

"Peterborough got a big boost by beating champions Notts County, so I'm sure they'll take their full allocation of around 2,000 tickets. Away fans always make a lot of noise and we have to match that. I believe we made the correct decision in not giving them the Habbin Stand, and I'd love to see Cambridge people respond to that by turning up in their thousands."

"We didn't defend at all well during that attack," he told the CEN. "We had four men around the ball and nobody got to it. But when a player is that much offside you expect to see the linesman's flag. It was a frustrating end to a game which contained a lot of good moments for us."

He was less than impressed that his young side could not hold on to a two goal lead with only eighteen minutes left. Recently United saw a half-time two goal lead wiped out at the Abbey by Scunthorpe, at Rotherham they were two goals up entering the 90th minute, and Chester scored a 90th minute winner at the Abbey in January. If those points were in the bag United would be entering the last month of the season with a realistic hope of the play-offs.

Recent new signing Andy Duncan commented: "We were disappointed, especially after having a two goal lead, but we're in good form for the derby game with Peterborough."

John Taylor

United's reserves won the President's Cup tonight, beating Brentford reserves 2-1 to bring the silverware to the Abbey Stadium.

United went ahead in the first minute through teenage striker Mark McCammon and veteran John Taylor - a man who grew accustomed to success in his first spell at United - added to United's lead before the visitors levelled through Derek Bryan.

Cambridge United: Shaun Marshall, Darren Webb, Adie Hayes, John Taylor, Colin Foster, Paul Wilson, Mark Moore, Jason Rees, Mark McCammon, Alex Finlayson, Tom Youngs. Subs: Jamie Barnwell, Martin McNeil, Andrew Ingham.

Cambridge United: (4-3-3) Barrett, Chenery, Ashbee, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Beall (Preece 80), Butler, Kyd (Taylor 84), Benjamin.
Sub Not Used: Wilson.
Booked: Duncan (40' violent conduct), Joseph (73' foul).

Hartlepool Utd: Hollund, Knowles, Lucas, Barron, Lee, Ingram, Clark (Di Lella 64), Miller, Midgley (Irvine 64), Howard, Beech (McDonald 64).
Booked: Ingram (67' foul).

Ref: T Jones (Barrow-in-Furness).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 7, Hartlepool 5
Corners: Cambridge 6, Hartlepool 1

Hartlepool started brightly and took an early lead through Tommy Miller in the fourth minute, the first-year pro finishing a move he started. But United levelled when Paul Wanless nodded a corner kick back across goal for Martin Butler to score with a diving header. Due to suspension and a long injury lay-off, the striker's 17th minute goal was his first since December in that controversial game at Stevenage Borough in the FA Cup replay.

Shortly after the break United took control with two quick-fire goals. In the 53rd minute Paul Wanless powered home a header from ten yards thanks to some poor marking at a corner, and a minute later Butler added another. 'Billy' Beall lofted the ball forward from the half-way line and Butler received the ball on the corner of the penalty area with his back to goal. The former Walsall man twisted and turned past his defender, and from ten yards out squeezed the ball home from a narrow angle, his tenth goal of an interrupted season.

United should have cruised home as comfortable winners and could even have been 4-1 leaders in the 61st minute. Hartlepool goalkeeper Martin Hollund dropped a cross and Paul Wanless won the scramble for the loose ball to force it over the goal-line, but referee Mr Jones somehow judged the keeper had been fouled and chalked the goal off.

Then in the 64th minute Hartlepool made a triple substitution. One of the new men was Argentinian midfielder Gustafo Di Lella, who pounced on a rebound to score in the 71st minute after Scott Barrett had parried his initial shot. The goal set up a tense finale and McFarland threw old heads David Preece and John Taylor into the fray to add some experience to the U's side, but it was the same man who equalised for Pools in the 88th minute, volleying Howard's flick-on.

McFarland - 50th

Manager Roy McFarland celebrates his fiftieth birthday on Sunday but he knows his players face a tough challenge tomorrow if they are to give him an early birthday treat. He admitted, "We all realise how hard it is going up there, but winning our last two away games will have given the players confidence. We know we have to win to stay in the race, and we'll be going for it."

He looks likely to name an unchanged side after the last minute home win against Darlington last Saturday, and defender Andy Duncan is set to start his first match as a fully-fledged United player after signing a permanent deal yesterday and ending his loan from Manchester United.

McFarland, who won 28 caps for England during his own career as a defender, spoke highly of Duncan to the Cambridge Evening News: "It was his first taste of League football when he came to us on loan, and we have seen him develop from a wing-back into a strong centre-back who reads the game well. His Manchester United background shows through. His football is very sound, and he's got a good competitive attitude. He's got a good future."

The manager will be looking to bring in news faces this summer but he says he is pleased with his defenders, especially after the back-line have kept six clean sheets in the last eight games.

"I'll be looking for one more defender," he told the News, "but I'm quite pleased with the way the defence has settled down after the switch from the wing-backs system to the flat back four. Players have bedded themselves in and we have looked very solid over the last month or so, apart from in that second half against Scunthorpe when we had some shaky moments.

"Of course, there's room for improvement because the players are mainly very young and inexperienced, but they are all showing signs of developing their game, and it's played a major part in our recent recovery. Considering we lost defenders of the calibre of Jody Craddock and Danny Granville in the summer, we've adapted well, so there are other areas I'm looking at more closely than the defence when we think about bringing people in."

Prime Minister Tony Blair this morning congratulated Cambridge United's stance against racism. This was as a direct result of action by the club at the home game against Scarborough, when a spectator was arrested for racist behaviour after an operation involving extra Police and stewards.

21-year-old Daniel James admitted hurling 'threatening and abusive' language at players and spectators during the match in January. In his defence he said, "It wasn't solely me. They were songs we have sung for the last 10 years. I go with a group of lads - we always sing the same chants."

James, of Walpole Road, Cambridge was named and pictured on the front page of today's Cambridge Evening News. He has been banned from football grounds in England and Wales for two years and during overseas fixtures he must report to police in Britain. He was also fined £350 and ordered to pay £50 costs. Additionally Cambridge United have banned him from the Abbey Stadium for five years.

Steve Greenall, United's club secretary, said : "Following complaints from supporters, Cambridge United launched an undercover operation involving police and stewards to try to identify troublemakers and do something about it."

But Greenall added that he was "livid" the law did not allow James to be prosecuted for racist activity, and instead was taken to court for using insulting behaviour likely to cause distress to others. Because he was deemed to be acting alone he was charged under the Public Order Act rather than the section specific to racism under the Football Spectators Act.

Mr Blair said this morning, "I applaud the decisive action taken by Cambridge United, the Police and the courts. It is particularly fitting in the week that the Football Task Force report has been published. We will be tightening the law in this area. I hope other clubs follow Cambridge United' s example to stamp out racism."

It appears that talks with Bermudan-based potential backers for the club have broken down. Their interest was revealed last year although the businessmen were deferring any decision, but chairman Reg Smart is quoted in the CEN saying: "We've had talks for quite a few months, but they didn't lead to anything which would have been to the long-term benefit of Cambridge United.

"At one stage it looked as though these people might be interested in making a major contribution to the club in a way which would have been acceptable to us, but it didn't materialise."

Gillian Merron MP is introducing a bill in the House of Commons next Tuesday which should be of interest to all supporters of lower division clubs. The MP for Lincoln is introducing her Football Sponsorship Levy Bill under the Ten Minute Rule and she already has the public support of John Reames, the chairman of Lincoln City FC, and Peter Heard the Colchester United chairman.

Citing the unique role played in the community by local football clubs and the career opportunities for young footballers, Ms Merron aims through her Bill to redistribute a proportion of broadcasting agreement monies. In her letter to the chairmen of all Division Two and Three clubs she says, "I can see that if the smaller clubs are driven to the wall, many of tomorrow's potential stars may never get the chance to play professionally, jeopardising the future success of football as a national game."

She adds, "I have written to all Members of Parliament asking for their support. It would be helpful if you could contact your own MP to encourage them to campaign for change by supporting the bill and signing my Early Day Motion."

Steve Greenall told U's Net, "This is the best thing I've read in a long time. It would be good if United supporters on the Internet can express their support by e-mailing Anne Campbell, our local MP."

There is an exclusive interview with Duncan on today's Cambridge United Clubcall on 0891 555885, the replacement service for the Abbey Update. In Saturday's programme he said, "After my first month here I didn't really want to go back to Old Trafford as I knew I would be playing 'A' or reserve team football again."

That first month turned into a second and the loan has been made permanent just one game before the end of the three month maximum period. Since he made his debut from the bench at Shrewsbury in January Andy has started twelve games and missed only one through injury. In that time United have switched successfully to 4-3-3 from the 5-3-2 formation and he has been on the losing side just twice.

Manager Roy McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News: "I'm delighted Andy is staying with us. He is a key part of our building process. It's difficult to get quality players like him to move from Premiership clubs, but Andy settled in straight away and has really enjoyed playing first team football."

Duncan says that first team football would be hard for him to achieve at Manchester United and admitted, "It's nice to be associated with such a big club, but at this stage of my career I need to be playing regular League football. It's nice to have that responsibility."

Ian Ashbee

Contrary to the report in Monday's Cambridge Evening News, Ian Ashbee is not suspended for the derby game next Saturday. Secretary Steve Greenall confirmed to U's Net that Ashbee has benefitted from the new ruling which sees bookings removed from the player's record once he has gone five games without a yellow card, and he is eligible to face Peterborough.

Paul Wanless was also booked in that game and will miss the visit of Peterborough unless United's appeal against his yellow card is successful. Greenall revealed exclusively to U's Net that he has 'touched base' with referee Mr Halsey over the incident and added, "Mark Halsey told me that he is not allowed to disclose what he has told the FA but we can expect a reply within the next few days."

United have received a very apologetic letter from Darlington chairman Michael Peden confirming that his club will pay for the damage to United's away changing room, together with a written apology from the player concerned.

The unnamed player wrote: "I understand that this does not make what I did acceptable but I hope that we can resolve this matter in an amicable and friendly manner".

Steve Greenall commented that Cambridge United have always enjoyed a good relationship with Darlington, adding, "Their response was swift and the outcome was not surprising. We are delighted to accept the apology and it speaks volumes that the individual was not only prepared to put his hands up but to apologise in the way he did."

Finally, and for the third time in a year, Cambridge United have gained national recognition. The matchday programme finished third in the Division Three category of Programme Monthly's Programme of the Year awards. Despite a tiny budget the United programme was only behind those from Exeter City and Hull City. The P*sh programme was joint tenth. This award follows Total Football naming the Abbey Stadium as the best away stadium in the country and February's "Best Food Award" from Colman's.

The programme was described as "A first class issue" and congratulations are in order to programme editor Andrew Pincher and his band of volunteers.

Saturday's referee Mark Halsey has admitted to Darlington manager David Hodgson that he was wrong in awarding the free kick which led to United's winning goal. Hodgson rowed furiously with the official after the game and then appealed to him to watch a video of the last-minute incident.

Hodgson is quoted by the Cambridge Evening News saying: "This game is over and done with and we can't alter the result. But I felt it was important to establish that the protests by myself and my players were justified. I applaud the referee's honesty. It would be good for football if managers and referees had more contact, and we all talked more openly about things that go on in the game.

"I asked him to look at a video of the incident and he came back to say he probably made a mistake in ruling that the ball which just flew off the shin of one of my players was a back pass."

When McFarland heard the news he commented: "I hope the referee is in the same frame of mind when he views the incident in which Paul Wanless was needlessly booked, which we are asking him to do."

Wanless was booked in the first half when he accidentally caught a Darlington player as he tried to control a high ball, and if the booking stands he will miss the derby game a week on Saturday.

Hodgson has apologised for the damage done by his players to their changing room after the match. He admitted: "Losing like that was the last straw for some of my players after other incidents in the previous game. But I'm not condoning what happened in the changing room even if I can understand the feelings of the players. As a club we have apologised to Cambridge, and agreed to pay for the damage. There's no bad feeling between the clubs and we'll make them very welcome at our place next season as we always do."